The Gbeta-subunit-encoding gene bpp1 controls cyclic-AMP signaling in Ustilago maydis.

ABSTRACT: In the phytopathogenic fungus Ustilago maydis, fusion of haploid cells is a prerequisite for infection. This process is controlled by a pheromone-receptor system. The receptors belong to the seven-transmembrane class that are coupled to heterotrimeric G proteins. Of four Galpha subunits in U. maydis, only gpa3 has a function during mating and cyclic AMP (cAMP) signaling. Activation of the cAMP cascade induces pheromone gene expression; however, it does not lead to the induction of conjugation tubes seen after pheromone stimulation. To investigate the possibility that a Gbeta subunit participates in pheromone signaling, we isolated the single beta subunit gene, bpp1, from U. maydis. bpp1 deletion mutants grew filamentously and showed attenuated pheromone gene expression, phenotypes associat

SUBMITTER: Muller P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC420130 | biostudies-literature | 2004 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature